KATHMANDU, May 31: The CPN-UML, has objected to Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s remarks in Parliament regarding border issues, saying the comments run counter to Nepal’s national interests.
Neeraj Acharya, head of the party’s Publicity and Publications Department, said the prime minister’s statement had created unnecessary controversy and confusion on matters related to nationalism.
Responding through social media, Acharya described it as unfortunate that a person holding the country’s highest executive office would state that “Nepal has also encroached on another country’s territory.” He argued that views on such sensitive issues should be expressed only on the basis of facts, evidence and historical context.
Beyond the object on display
According to Acharya, various historical records, maps and studies have consistently supported Nepal’s claims regarding encroached territory. In such a situation, he said, statements that appear to portray Nepal itself as the offending party could undermine national pride and public sentiment.
The UML also said that the prime minister’s remarks had overshadowed the contributions of security personnel, researchers and experts who have long worked on protecting Nepal’s borders and advancing the country’s national interests.
The party stressed that the government must maintain a clear and responsible position on issues related to national borders, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The UML has called on the prime minister to clarify his statement and urged the government to publicly present its official position before Parliament and the general public. The party further stated that any ambiguity or lack of clarity on matters concerning national interest is unacceptable.
